Unemployment Appeals & Employment Lawyers
Houston employment lawyer Clayton Craighead has years of experience representing employees in a variety of cases in Texas. During the pandemic, unemployment appeals have become more important than ever. If you are denied unemployment, an attorney is your advocate to help you maintain benefits in these dire times.
Employers Can Contest Your Unemployment Claims
When you lose a job and file a claim with the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC), your former employer may submit an objection. They would argue that you are not entitled to unemployment benefits.
It is on them to justify their reason for this claim, such as that you were fired for misconduct.
Ultimately, it is up to the agency to determine whether you receive benefits. Should they decide to deny you your benefits, you have the right to appeal their decision. When you want to appeal this decision, it can involve several hearings. The unemployment appeals process with the TWC can be a little confusing.
Likewise, your former employer has the option to appeal their decision should they feel you do not deserve benefits. In such a convoluted process, an employment lawyer can be a great advocate.
Unemployment Hearings in Texas
Oftentimes, employees have the right to unemployment benefits when separated from an employer for any reason aside from misconduct. To receive benefits, you must apply for them through the TWC.
Once you file a claim, the TWC makes its initial determination about whether you qualify for benefits. Should you be denied unemployment, you have the right to appeal their decision. A Houston employment lawyer like Clayton Craighead can represent you in the hearing.
As we mentioned in a previous post, there are short yet crucial deadlines in the unemployment appeals process. Your Houston employment attorney can act as an advocate for you, fighting for you to attain benefits.
When Do I Need an Employment Lawyer?
Filing an application for unemployment benefits is a straightforward process. In Texas, you can file your claim online. If you were laid off as many were in the pandemic, you may not need to consult an attorney. However, some situations are more complex. Navigating these situations can be much easier with the help of an employment lawyer.
When you are denied benefits from the TWC, hiring a lawyer will give you an advantage. An appeal for unemployment benefits involves strict deadlines and several types of hearings should your appeal be denied. It is also likely that your former employer will have legal representation throughout this process.
Unemployment appeal hearings are less formal than court proceedings. However, you have a better chance of your appeal changing your situation when you have good legal advice. This process is your opportunity to present evidence you deserve benefits. Having an advocate on your side makes it more of an equal opportunity to fight.
Your Houston Employment Lawyer
When you want to file unemployment appeals, contact our employment law firm. Unemployment insurance appeals can be a complicated process. With the right advocate, you’ll have the knowledge to follow each appropriate step in the appeals process. From presenting evidence to an appeals board to additional information an administrative law judge might look for, we will fight for you.